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A Gathering Like No Other: The Essence of Saabstance Camp
Every car brand has its enthusiasts, but few communities are as dedicated and tight-knit as Saab owners. This became strikingly evident at Saabstance Camp 2024, held near Liberec in the Czech Republic. What started as a local meet-up has now evolved into a must-attend event for Saab lovers across Europe, bringing together owners, mechanics, restorers, and newcomers who share one thing – a deep love for the brand.
This is more than just a car meet. It’s a celebration of engineering, history, and personal connections that transcend generations. Saabstance Camp is not about showing off pristine, showroom-condition cars—it’s about the stories, the struggles, and the friendships forged through shared passion.
Watch the official Saabstance Camp 2024 video here:
Why Saabs? The Unmistakable Appeal
Why do people drive Saabs when the brand has been gone for over a decade? The answer lies in the uniqueness of these cars. Saabs were never built for the masses—they were built for those who sought something different. Whether it’s the legendary turbocharged performance, the uncompromising safety innovations, or the aircraft-inspired design, every Saab owner has a story about why they chose this Swedish icon.
For many at Saabstance Camp, their journey started with a single Saab that turned into an obsession. One attendee summed it up perfectly: “If you want a car that truly lasts, you need to buy two Saabs. Then three. And then it just snowballs from there.” This sentiment resonates with many who, despite the challenges of maintaining an out-of-production brand, remain fiercely loyal.
The People Behind the Passion
Saabstance Camp isn’t just about cars—it’s about people. Attendees included some of the most dedicated Saab enthusiasts, each bringing their own unique story to the table. Petr Kulhánek, Jan Mrázek, Petr Macháček, and many others have built their lives around the brand, not just as drivers but as restorers, collectors, and historians of Saab’s legacy.
One notable story comes from an attendee who first encountered a Saab 900 Turbo in Switzerland as a child, instantly falling in love with the design and engineering. Decades later, that childhood impression turned into a lifelong commitment to the brand. Others spoke about their first Saab purchases, often accidental but quickly turning into lifelong devotion.
The Saab community is a family. It’s one where knowledge is freely shared, cars are repaired together, and newcomers are welcomed with open arms. This bond is what keeps the Saab spirit alive, even as the last new Saab rolled off the production line years ago.
Keeping the Legacy Alive: A Commitment to Preservation
With every passing year, keeping Saabs on the road becomes more challenging, but that hasn’t stopped enthusiasts. Many at Saabstance Camp emphasized the importance of restoration, parts preservation, and knowledge-sharing to ensure that these cars continue to run for years to come.
One story stood out—a 1969 Saab 96, originally bought in Czechoslovakia at Tuzex, carefully maintained by its owner and still in pristine condition. Original paint, original interior, and just 83,000 km on the odometer—a true time capsule that embodies Saab’s longevity and build quality.
Another common theme among attendees was the challenge of sourcing parts. Many rely on Saab enthusiast networks, specialized workshops, and even fabricating parts themselves to keep their cars running. As one participant put it, “Saab isn’t just a car—it’s a commitment.”
Saab Meetings: More Than Just Cars
For many, Saabstance Camp is not just about the cars—it’s about the people. These gatherings bring together individuals who would never have met otherwise, forming lifelong friendships through a shared passion.
Whether it’s traveling across Germany, Austria, or Sweden, Saab owners recognize each other instantly, often sharing stories about their cars in gas stations, on highways, or even in parking lots. One attendee described how simply driving a Saab in Sweden led to spontaneous conversations with former Saab employees who had worked on the assembly lines.
Even in smaller communities, the Saab network is alive. In Slovakia, for example, only around 1,000 Saabs remain on the roads, but the sense of connection among owners is stronger than ever. The Czech Republic boasts a slightly higher number—around 5,500—but the camaraderie remains the same.
Saabstance Camp: The Future of Saab Enthusiasm
Saabstance Camp 2024 was a powerful reminder that the brand’s legacy is far from dead. As long as enthusiasts continue to maintain and celebrate these cars, Saab will never truly disappear.
Events like this are crucial for keeping the brand’s history alive, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate what made Saab special. Whether it’s through restoration projects, online communities, or local gatherings, Saab lovers worldwide continue to prove that this isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life.
For those who missed this year’s event, Saabstance Camp 2025 promises to be even bigger and better. Until then, Saab enthusiasts will continue to drive, restore, and celebrate the cars that refuse to be forgot
